4 Panthers players to watch vs. Saints in Week 3

4 Panthers players to watch vs. Saints in Week 3

Have there ever been more nervous vibes for a 2-0 team that boasts the top defense in the NFL through two weeks? Yeah, probably not.

Following a 9-3 victory in their home opener last week, the undefeated Carolina Panthers will set up shop at Bank of America Stadium on Sunday with the 0-2 New Orleans Saints in town. Despite preparing for what looks to be the least intimidating squad Sean Payton’s rolled out in quite some time, injuries to tight end Greg Olsen and center Ryan Kalil have their fans experiencing uneasiness.

Could the Saints’ abominable defense just what the Panthers need, though? It depends on a few key players.

Here are four to watch for Week 3.

No. 22 – Christian McCaffrey

Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

Why are so many folks pointing to Sunday as the date for running back Christian McCaffrey’s NFL breakout party? Just look at the matchup.

The New Orleans defense is still, well, the New Orleans defense. Dennis Allen’s crew has allowed 1,025 yards of total offense through two weeks, by far the most of any unit entering this past Thursday night. This group could be the perfect remedy for McCaffrey, who’s averaged just 2.7 yards per carry.

With a neck injury keeping Kalil out for a second straight game and his brother Matt continuing to headline Carolina’s troubles in their run blocking execution, the Panthers may not exactly thrive on the ground as they should. But if there was ever a chance to establish dominance, this is it.

Nonetheless, expect Carolina to unleash their prized rookie in the passing game, similar to what the Patriots did with James White in New Orleans. White, also a dynamic presence through the air, reeled in eight receptions for 85 yards on the Saints in Week 2.